The use of gemstones from Burma (Myanmar) is now forbidden by law in the USA.
The Tom Lantos Block Burmese JADE (Junta's Anti-Democratic Efforts) Act of 2008 (Pub.L. 110-286, 122 Stat. 2632, enacted July 29, 2008) is a United States act of Congress, that bars gemstones -- specifically rubies and jadeite -- from Burma from entering the United States via third party countries.
As of 2008, gemstones were Burma's third largest source of income.
The bill also bars generals and their families from Burma from acquiring visas to enter the United States and increases financial sanctions against the Burmese government. The ban does not apply to gems imported for personal use nor to exports of Burmese gems from the U.S or prevent U.S. sales of Burmese gems already in the United States.
Products with Burmese Ruby ban
According to Arvind Ganesan, director of the Business and Human Rights Program at Human Rights Watch, Burmese gemstones are tainted by gross human rights abuses. The jewelry industry should take firm action to assure its customers – as well as law enforcement officials – that it is doing all it can to avoid buying from Burma. The international trade in Burmese gems helps finance repression and puts millions into the pockets of Burma’s abusive rulers.
A few American retailers – notably Tiffany & Co. have long taken an ethical stand by refusing to buy Burmese-origin gemstones. Momentum for an industry-wide boycott grew following the August-September 2007 government crackdown in Burma against peaceful protesters.
